Sean -
Andy Muzi and Yellow Jersey are good sources of info on 3Rensho (and for lots of other stuff too, like Suntour catalog reprints).
http://www.yellowjersey.org/
Sounds like you may have a mixed Superbe/Superbe Pro group. That's actually quite common, as there was some crossover for certain bits. There were, indeed, both Superbe and Superbe Pro seatposts, hubs, brakesets, headsets and other components. For that bike you could probably go either way, or use a mix. I have an album of some Suntour components here, where you can get an idea of some of the differences:
http://www.wooljersey.com/
I have an '83 3Rensho that I plan on building up with Suntour, and I'm also trying to decide if I want Superbe or Sup-Pro or a mix. Superbe might be a little more appropriate time-wise, but I'm not a stickler for that.
Good luck with your project. We'll want to see pictures, of course.
Wayne Bingham Lovettsville VA USA
>>>>
The mailman just delivered my new/old 3rensho roadbike today and
needless to say, I'm quite excited. I'm looking for a bit of
help/advice though.
It's a super record export Katana Model with fastback seatstays.
First off, I'm trying to date it. The BB has a serial number of A0065-560. It also has super ends so that puts it at '86 or later, right? I know that is off timeline, but I would very well consider this a KOF bicycle.
After I figure out the date, I wanna put age appropriate parts on it. Right now it's mostly Superbe, and I think that's the grouppo I want to go for. Right now, it's all superbe (even the stem!), except for the seatpost, hubs brake levers and headset. Also, did suntour make water bottle cages?
Also, the superbe grouppo on it looks later end of the spectrum (but not the SR era). The derailuers, cranks and brakes all read superbe pro, while the stem just reads superbe. Is there a difference?
I'm looking for recommendations on an age appropriate set of rims and bars. Also any other tips or info on making this "thing as it should be". Additionally, if anyone has any of the missing suburbe parts mentioned above that they need to unload, let me know.
Take care and thanks once again for the help.
Sean Flores
San Francisco, CA<<<<<